My initial impressions of Portugal. I think that my first initial impression of Portugal when we first found out the news that we had to switch study abroad was ?dang I?d rather had gone to Spain? because you know that is probably what most people think that Portugal is the little brother of Spain and lives in its shadow. However, despite public perception it is actually the opposite Portugal is actually older than Spain and has had a kingdom older than them. They had been established longer. Portugal has so much culture and is unique in so many aspects. I see the influence of French architecture and British within the buildings. Also not having to pay 20 more of a goods if you use the VAT refund and get it back the goods are actually cheaper however it only works on non perishable goods and for personal use. We went to a cork farm and a olive oil farm. I gave the man some business ideas and he gave me extra olive and asked me to contact him. Another thing I noticed about the people here is that sustainability is a big issue here and it?s obvious from their lack of GMO?s in the food. They don?t allow agriculture products from the US and it?s obvious why the fruit here tastes so much fresher and better. And one of the key takeaways from the last couple of days for me is that they care about the planet as a another organism such as another human versus just as the planet and the farmers believe that money is not as important as saving the planet and it?s just different their mindset versus our capitalist mindset especially as a business student I always feel the pressure between making money and doing what?s right for the environment. It?s quite a paradox. Because we think in terms of a 10 year scope but they think in terms of generations.
Center for International Business Studies Blog